Social security in periods of high cost of living

In this project, we will examine how selected Norwegian welfare benefits have developed over the last 15 years. Do the benefits keep pace with the economic development, and does the welfare state adapt quickly enough when prices are rising sharply?

The recent high inflation has created problems for many families. The economic leeway is especially affected by high electricity prices, soaring food prices, and increasing interest rates.

The support schemes in the Norwegian welfare state are intended to ensure economic security for individuals who are unable to support themselves through income-generating work. For most welfare recipients, the income protection works in this way, but individuals who are not in work are more financially insecure than others.

In the project, we will examine how selected Norwegian welfare benefits, such as disability pensions and old-age pensions, and the national guideline for the social assistance rate have developed over the last 15 years.

Do the benefits and the guideline for the social assistance rate keep pace with economic development?
Is the welfare state able to adapt quickly enough in situations where prices increase sharply?
Is there something in the design of the welfare system that contributes to people being trapped in poverty?